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If you want a career where your skills will always be in demand, plumbing is worth a serious look. In Illinois, plumbers handle water systems, gas lines, drainage, and more. The good news? You can get into the trade without a four-year degree-if you get the right training.
In this guide, I'll explain the best plumbing schools in Illinois, what to look for in a program, and the steps for getting licensed.
How Plumbing Licensing Works in Illinois
Illinois requires plumbers to be licensed through the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).
State Rule: You must either complete an approved apprenticeship or pass the Illinois plumber licensing exam after meeting eligibility requirements.
- Illinois Department of Public Health
Here are the main steps:
-
Meet minimum requirements
- At least 16 years old for an apprentice license.
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid driver's license and legal right to work.
-
Get an apprentice plumber's license from IDPH.
- Apply before starting training with a licensed plumbing contractor or approved program.
-
Complete training
- Usually a mix of classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job training.
- Most apprenticeships last 4-5 years.
-
Apply for the plumber's licensing exam after completing your apprenticeship.
- The exam covers state plumbing code, safety, and trade skills.
-
Maintain your license
- Renewal required every year.
- Continuing education may be required.
For full details, see the Illinois Department of Public Health Plumbing Licensing page.
What to Look for in a Plumbing School
Before you choose a program, check for:
- State approval - The program must be recognized by IDPH or partner with licensed contractors.
- Hands-on training - The best programs provide lab work and field experience.
- Experienced instructors - Ideally, they are licensed plumbers with years in the trade.
- Job placement support - Connections to local contractors and unions.
- Schedule options - Full-time, part-time, or evening classes if you're working.
Best Plumbing Schools and Apprenticeship Programs in Illinois
Here are several well-known training paths in Illinois. Contact each for current tuition, schedules, and enrollment requirements.
1. Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Local 130 UA Apprenticeship Program
- Location: Chicago, IL (with additional training centers in Joliet and Volo)
- Type: Union apprenticeship
- Length: 5 years
- Training Includes: Classroom instruction, safety training, and paid on-the-job experience.
- Website: plumberslu130ua.org
- Recognized statewide and offers strong union benefits.
2. Illinois Plumbing Consultants
- Location: McHenry, IL
- Type: Plumbing education center
- Length: Varies by course (pre-licensing and continuing education available)
- Focus: Licensing exam prep, plumbing code training.
- Website: illinoisplumbingconsultants.com
- Good option if you need to refresh skills or prepare for the exam.
3. UA Local 99 Apprenticeship
- Location: Bloomington, IL
- Type: Union apprenticeship
- Length: 5 years
- Specialization: Residential, commercial, and industrial systems.
- Website: ualocal99.org
- Offers paid training with benefits.
4. Joliet Junior College - Plumbing Apprenticeship
- Location: Joliet, IL
- Type: College-based apprenticeship partnership
- Length: Four-to-five-year apprenticeship programs through local contractors.
- Website: jjc.edu
- Combines college coursework with trade experience.
5. UA Local 149 Plumbers & Pipefitters Apprenticeship Program
- Location: Savoy, IL
- Type: Union apprenticeship
- Length: 5 years
- Website: ualocal149.org
- Training covers plumbing, pipefitting, and welding skills.
| School/Program | Location | Program Type | Typical Length |
| Plumbers Local 130 UA | Chicago, Joliet, Volo | Union Apprenticeship | 5 years |
| Illinois Plumbing Consultants | McHenry | Private Training | Varies |
| UA Local 99 | Bloomington | Union Apprenticeship | 5 years |
| Joliet Junior College | Joliet | College + Apprenticeship | 4-5 years |
| UA Local 149 | Savoy | Union Apprenticeship | 5 years |
Tips for Getting Into a Plumbing Apprenticeship
Competition for good programs can be high. Here's how to improve your chances:
- Apply early-some programs only accept new apprentices once a year.
- Brush up on math, especially fractions and geometry.
- Be prepared for an aptitude test.
- Have a clean driving record and pass drug screening.
- Show up on time for every step of the process, including interviews.
Safety and Compliance
Working as a plumber means dealing with pressurized water, gas, and sometimes hazardous substances.
Warning: OSHA requires proper protective equipment and safety training for all plumbing work involving confined spaces or hazardous materials.
Learn safety rules from the start-they are part of the licensing exam and your day-to-day job.
Summary and Next Steps
If you want to become a licensed plumber in Illinois, start by deciding which training route fits you union apprenticeship, college partnership, or private training. Make sure the program is approved by the state. Then apply for your apprentice plumber's license through IDPH.
Your next step:
Check the IDPH Apprenticeship Application page and contact at least two programs from the list above to compare schedules and requirements. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can start earning while you learn.
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